Raymond Lee Wilton, 47

Raymond Lee Wilton, 47, of Kalispell, died with his loving family with him, July 26, 2007, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, following a short and courageous battle with leukemia.

Ray was born Aug. 14, 1959, in Denver. He moved with his family to the Flathead in 1967, where he lived the remainder of his life. He attended school in Columbia Falls graduating in 1977. Following graduation Ray worked at Plum Creek and Columbia Falls Aluminum Company.

Many people know Ray just from seeing him daily, as he walked from one end of town to another. What few people knew was Ray suffered a brain injury in 1979 resulting in numerous problems and difficulties as the years passed but he carried on with dignity and courage. Although very reluctant to ask for help from others, Ray was always ready with a smile to lend a helping hand.

Ray was preceded in death by two nephews, Matthew Frank Buentemeier and Joshua Arnold Stumvoll; and his mom, Carmel Wilton.

His father Frank Wilton and stepmother, Dawn, survive him along with his two sisters and their families, Debbie and Mike Ridenour; their children, Meghann and Jesse Mann; and their daughter, Sydney Mann; Levi and Kenanne Ridenour; and sister, Barbara and husband, Bob Stumvoll; and their children, Justin and Katie Stumvoll.

He will be missed deeply. We love you Ray and are so proud of the courageous battle you fought. Keep smiling!

Inurnment beside his mother will be in Anaconda. Memorial services will be held at a later date.